TP Bennett hires in Manchester

Architectural, interiors and planning practice TP Bennett has appointed Mark Barker as architectural director.

Barker will develop the practice's architectural services and manage projects across the North West and north of England as well as supporting the growth of the office, which has been operational in Manchester for six months.

Barker joined from NPS Leeds, where he was managing director of property and design management services with overall responsibility for an office with more than 50 employees.

He has more than 30 years of experience delivering multi-million pound architectural projects across the commercial and public sectors, including headquarters for the Horbury Group, the Bradford Building Schools for the Future programme, Rotherham Hospital and high-end residential projects.

Since TP Bennett opened the Manchester office in August last year, the practice has worked with DLA Piper providing due diligence and advising on its search for new premises, and has now been appointed to brief and design the 45,000 sq ft office at 1 St Peter's Square.

Richard Beastall, principal director, said: "The TP Bennett Manchester office is expanding quickly, which is testament to the strength of the market and the ambition of the region and we are delighted to be part of this growth. Mark's experience will support us in developing our architectural services to the benefit of those across the North West and wider northern regions."